Design and build sustainable trail, blaze and sign it, and stay safe while managing groups of volunteers.
Manuals and Guides
Tools and Supplies
As of April 2026, NCTA Chapters and Affiliates may request signage, PPE, and NCNST brochures from the National Park Service using the form below.
Approved tools and supplies (including paint and Carsonite posts) can be purchased and reimbursed via the process linked below.
Safety
Emergency Response Plan, Updated March 2022
Establishing an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) before leaving the trailhead helps volunteers provide a fast response in an event of an emergency. This template ERP form and instructions are available to guide volunteers in the process of developing a plan.
Establishing an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) before leaving the trailhead helps volunteers provide a fast response in an event of an emergency. This template ERP form and instructions are available to guide volunteers in the process of developing a plan.
- NPS Trail Safe! Series
- NPS Tailgate Safety Series
- NPS Injury, Near Miss, and Exposure Procedures for VIPs
- Hike Participant Sign-In Sheet, Participation Agreement, Waiver and Release (printable)
Project Planning
- National Park Service Trail Project Form
As of December 1, 2020, all trail projects must be submitted through the National Park Service compliance process. Follow the link above for a tutorial on the process and how to complete the submission form.
Additional Resources
- Springtime Walk-Throughs on the North Country National Scenic Trail
- USFS Trail and Structure Specifications
- USFS Trail Bridge Catalog
- USFS Publications List, Recreational Trails
- Contributing to Planning on the North Country National Scenic Trail
- Chapter Leadership Handbook
Header photo by Shelby Gangloff
